Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Interior Stone Wall Repair

I have a very old house with an interior stone wall that is approximately 15" thick (Three of the exterior walls are stone as well). We've determined that these walls are over 100 years old and the stone was dug up from the surrounding area. The interior stone wall is non structural and is perpendicular to the exterior wall. I have enlarged an existing opening in this wall and need to have the edges finished with the stone that was removed.

I had an estimate from one mason who told me he would need to drill holes into each stone being installed. Into these holes he would install some sort of pin that would allow it to hold onto the mortar being used. He explained that this would also keep it from bulging in the future.

Is this guy going overboard? It seems like a lot of work and expense just to finish the edge of the wall?

I can't see what you see, so that is my disclaimer. With today's modern adhesives, however, I can't see why the rock would have to be mechanically fastened. Will the rock be forming the trim, how is the opening supported? I am assuming the rock are stacked and form their own support. Post back if more information is needed.

Perhaps you should get another estimate or two. I am not a stone mason but am a professional concrete contractor. As such, I run into homeowners that second guess me sometimes. My opinion is that if the guy is an experienced professional, he probably knows what he's talking about. However, if not, the other contractors would most likely tell you about it.
Personally, I doubt that he would want to do all that added work if he could just come in, slap it up quick, and walk away with a check. The only exception would be if you are paying him hourly instead of by the job.
As Chandler said, people answering on a forum can't see your job. It may well have some special abnormal requirements.

Pecos

what type of stone is it and when you enlarged the opening on the wall can you describe how they enlared it, and when you say you need the edges finished does it mean you need fill in gaps to create more of a definded looking opening.(squarish) also is there a door mounted somehow to the sides or face of the opning? if the answer in no. please re-post and i will tell you what probly will work and what wont work